Safety starts with "S", begins with "YOU"

[MATHEW FELEX]

Dear all,

Ramadan Kareem !

Fasting has quite the physical effect on the body, and when combined with the summer heat can lead to dehydration, distracting hunger and low blood sugar, which can affect our reaction speeds, alertness, concentration and sight.

In addition to fasting, the unusual and irregular meal timings and sleep patterns can cause fatigue, impatience and distraction. Right before the sun sets, motorists will be rushing home to be with their loved ones for Iftar, meaning those of us on the roads must be wary of other drivers.

Eight tips for staying safe on the roads during Ramadan:

1.     If you feel tired before driving, try and take a short nap, or use public transport.

2.     If you feel sleepy while driving to the point of distraction, pull over immediately and rest.

3.     Be more courteous with other road users, and leave plenty of space between yourself and the car in front.

4.     Try to avoid the roads before the Iftar rush. If you can’t, be extra wary – some of the road users will be looking to rush home to break their fast.

5.     Allow yourself plenty of time before you set out for a journey – being safe is worth being late !

6.     Keep yourself visible – make sure your headlights, tail lights and signal lights all work properly. Turn on your headlights shortly before the sun sets.

7.     It should go without saying, but follow the rules of the road – sudden merging or swerving will not only endanger yourself, but other drivers too.

8.     Road safety doesn’t just apply to drivers. Pedestrians and cyclists should be wary when using crossings, even if the light is green !

[Gaurav]

Very nicely emphasised @MATHEW FELEX, really well done.

I like to bit more emphasis on point no: 4 for people who aren't fasting, be MORE patient and considerate to others who are fasting, as they are rushing home or out for breaking the fast, but you can be late by few minutes to reach home.

During this Ramadan, I had 2 instances where I have to drive just before Iftar, and after seeing some car reactions. I decided to drive on last lane for being considerate and for my own safety.

[Javier M]

I haven't noticed any difference, people drive just as bad as always. 

[Rahimdad]

@Javier M in that case you haven't seen me drive when I'm fasting.